Reviews (1)

Seems easy, but isn't!
While this video is a little more instructional than I like, and it seemed a little too easy to do, I woke up the next day and it hurt to walk! 2 days later I was almost back to normal. This is a powerful workout, and I highly recommend it for intermediate/advanced users. I heart Bryan Kest! ... Read more

Description

Develop flexible strength and by combining Yoga postures with thebest of Body Sculpting.In this routine, you’ll engage several muscle groups at one time,often strengthening one set while stretching another.Its 25 minutes of Yoga postures tostretch and sculpt your entire body and 20 minutes of matwork to create a strong centerwith firm abs and a healthy back.Yoga block optional. ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Challenging yoga practice
I had read a bunch of unfavorable reviews of this video. Either it wasn't challenging enough as a sculpting workout or it wasn't meditative enough. Also, I got the feeling when reading between the lines that it wasn't exactly yoga, either. I'm pretty snobby about my yoga practice, but I'm a new Karen Voight fan and I have a lot of respect for her precise approach. I took a chance on this and I'm glad I did.

The practice is about 45 minutes long and begins with a quick breathing exercise in Mountain Pose. Then she moves onto the standing series, which is about 25 minutes long. A modified Sun Salutation utilizing Awkward Chair (and no jumping), and then moving into Lunge, Warrior I, Warrior II, Right Angle and Triangle. Then to the floor for work on the abdominals and back with such yoga classics as Boat and Bridge.

Throughout the practice, I was very impressed with her precise instruction and fluid movement into and out of poses. In Boat, for instance, many students flop out of the position after two or three tries. She made sure her students moved out carefully. Also, her instructions on alignment and foot position left little room for error. That is very important, particularly for the standing poses where you need to maintain just the right angle in your back leg. Finally, I loved the classical music she used for the video; it provided just the right rhythm without being too distracting.

I broke a sweat during this practice even though it doesn't look that tough on preview. Because I am an advanced yoga practitioner, I was very surprised that people less advanced would feel this wasn't strenuous enough. I think the key is breathing: if you're not using deep full breaths on your inhale and exhale, you're strengthening and maybe stretching; if you incorporate the proper breathing, this is a more vigorous workout.

The intensity level is somewhere between Total Yoga and Yoga Zone for Power Yoga for Flexibility and Endurance. Beginners may find this too challenging, but Intermediates and Advanced yoga practitioners should find this a good workout.

Nordstrom of Workout DVDs
Karen's workouts will leave you refreshed and invigorated. Once I have completed this challenging video, I feel stretched, strengthened, toned and very peaceful.

If you are just starting out, be patient with yourself. Yoga will develop patience, character and strength. Think of each posture as a goal; by the third or fourth time, you may achieve what you see. This video is a combination of Pilates and Yoga.

Ordering a sticky mat is essential (information is included in pamphlets or amazon sells lots of yoga mats and even bags to carry them in...) so you don't injure your muscles by slipping on a carpeted surface.

Karen's calming voice leads you through the poses in her organized way. The music is very relaxing and almost makes this the Nordstrom of Yoga videos. I recommend walking for at least one half hour before attempting the stretching exercises. This helps to warm the muscles and allow for a deeper stretch.

~TheRebeccaReview.com

If You Have Bad Wrists...
This is a wonderful workout with easy to follow directions. Might I remind those who rated this low that it is Yoga "Sculpt?" If you have bad wrists, get a different kind of Yoga dvd. Would you buy a how to run book and then complain because it doesn't cater to those with bad ankles???

A different kind of yoga workout
Karen Voight's YogaSculpt combines classic yoga poses with innovative twists to turn up the intensity and focus on sculpting. Karen begins the workout with a relaxing breathing exercise but then quickly steps up the pace with a challenging sequence which combines down dog with high push up pose. The standing series includes traditional yoga poses such as Warrior 1, Warrior 2, and Triangle pose, but Karen combines each pose with extra lengthening and stretching moves. The first half of workout last approximately 25 minutes, and then it's on to the floor for approximately 16 minutes of mat work focused on the abdominals and back. In this section, Karen combines yoga poses such as Boat and Bridge with Pilates-type movements. Both the abs and the back receive thorough attention, and then the practice ends with a brief stretch.

Karen is an excellent instructor who performs the workout fluidly and with flawless form. Her voice is gentle and encouraging, and she provides detailed instruction on how to perform each movement, including attention to breathing. There were a few times when I felt that she failed to adequately cue a change in movement, but once you've done the workout a few times, Karen is easy to follow. She instructs alone with soft piano music in the background. Overall, this is a challenging yet relaxing workout which will add some nice variety to your yoga practice for those beyond a beginner's level.

An okay workout
I thought this was an okay yoga workout. I found the Brian Kest Power Yoga tapes to be a more complete satisfying workout. Not much pose variety in this one. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Fans of Kathy Smith will appreciate the highlights from her exercise videos gathered on one DVD for a full-body workout. Use the written chapter menu (no pictures are shown, but the names are descriptive enough) to jump to the segment you want, or use Smith's training schedule, which gives you a weekly routine depending on whether your goal is weight loss (the cardio workout plus walking to be done outside or on a treadmill), body sculpting (the weight and cardio workouts), or stress reduction (a combination of yoga and cardio). The training schedule is an effective and easy way to keep you on track and to keep your routine varied.

The exercise program is broken down into the following segments: warm-up (6 minutes from Functionally Fit: Peak Fat Burning), cardio (20 minutes from Cardio Fat Burner), upper body (20 minutes from Lift Weights to Lose Weight), lower body (20 minutes from Functionally Fit: Lower Body Firming), abs and back strengthening (5 minutes from Lift Weights to Lose Weight), yoga basics (30 minutes from New Yoga Basics), and cool down (7 minutes from Cardio Fat Burner). The extras are negligible--a biography of Smith, clips from her videos, her Web site link--but the heart of the DVD--the workouts--will have you moving and sweating. While many of the segments here are short (it would have been nice if the DVD had included the full 40-minute workout from Cardio Fat Burner, and the ab workout feels brief), this is one program that covers everything: your heart rate will be elevated, your muscles will be toned, and you'll be feeling de-stressed and healthy. --Jenny Brown ... Read more

Reviews (20)

Good workout, good variety
There seems to be a wide range of opinions on this one, but I've been very happy with this video for the most part. I rented it and I have done it a few times now and am about to buy it. Yes, it's true that during the cardio segment there are a lot of whoops and cheers going on which is definitely a bit much, but I've gotten over it. It also involves fairly complicated steps that frustrated me the first time, but already on the third go, I've gotten it down, and now I'm enjoying it. I do agree with someone else who said that the video would be even better if she had at least included one or two other cardio workouts on here. I like different sections offered, though, and that's what makes this DVD worth buying. You can do cardio one day, arm strenghtening another day, legs another day, yoga, etc. The strength training for upper and lower body are definitely strenuous and you can really feel it working (man, was I sore the day after my first time doing the arms!). Be aware that you need free weights for the arm portion - they recommend three different pairs of varying weights, but two would probably do. I use three pairs of 3, 5, & 8 pounds each. I actually had to work up to doing the entire leg portion because, as short as it is, I couldn't finish it all the first time. That's good, though. I don't want a video to be a piece of cake the first time. I want something to work up to. I haven't tried the yoga yet, but everyting else is definitely recommended if you're not a total beginner (it would probably be too tough for someone new to workout videos). I actually don't think Kathy Smith is that annoying as someone else has suggested here. She's encouraging and upbeat, but it's not as if she has that girly, feel-good demeanor that Denise Austin has. (I actually like Denise Austin anyway--her little comments provide some comic relief, even if that's not how she intends it), but I think I prefer Kathy Smith's style because she seems more truly athletic and less girly than Austin, she doesn't blab so much about random things, and I think she gives a bit more info about the proper form of the moves, etc. I recommend this video as well as Kathy Smith's Kickboxing DVD and her Functionally Fit Fat Burner. Those are both great cardio workouts (in fact, based on the cardio section alone, they are better), but this one includes more (with the strength training and yoga, etc) so it's worth having. I'm getting all three to keep things interesting...

Great video!
I am a Kathy Smith fan and I use this video every other day. As well as cardio and weight training, there is also a yoga segment. I have her videos on VHS and now I want them on DVD. It's a great deal; 3 different workouts on one video. No it's not anything different then her video tapes but if you love Kathy Smith it won't matter. You don't need weights for lower body work and believe me you still feel it. Upper body is quick with great directions.

I always keep going back to this one.
I've tried numerous workout videos, but I always seem to come back to this one. I really like this video because I don't get bored with it. Since there are different workouts, you can mix and match what you do from day to day to break the monotany. And, Kathy is really easy to follow. She explains the steps so that you know you are doing them right. And she lets you know in advance when to change moves. With other workout videos, I find myself doing the moves fast trying to keep up, and although I get a workout, it's mainly just me trying to quickly do the moves, but I don't think the moves are benefiting me the way they should. But I don't feel that way with this video. I like the cardio segment, although I could see how you could grow out if it as you get more advanced. But the weights segment even gives my boyfriend a good workout. Lastly, the abs segment, although short, is the most effective ab workout I've ever done, as long as you are doing it right. And actually, whether I decide to go jogging, or do another workout video, I always pop this DVD in to do the cool down stretching, because it really works the right muscles after a good workout. Yeah, she may be a little "cheerleader-ish" from time to time, but I'd rather hear that than listen to the robots from The Firm.

Too confusing!
This is the second Kathy Smith exercise tape I had ever bought. The first was Kathy Smith's Latin Rhythm Workout. I found the steps too complicated which made it unenjoyable so I never used it again after a few tries. But I thought it was just me not picking up on the dance steps. So I gave this dvd a try. Well!! I'm not a total spaz and it takes me time to pick up on certain more complicated moves, but I've been working out with exercise tapes for years so I am familiar with a lot of the steps and timing. But I got confused during the warm-up! Then I knew I was in trouble. I found the cardio portion way too complicated and hard to follow along. When your time is precious and you are trying to squeeze in a workout, it's a waste of time if you are stumbling around confused the entire time. I like Denise Austin's exercise tapes much better.

It's not Ben Hur, just a workout DVD
Over the past year and a half, I have been a quirky sort of workout junkie. It was only a matter of time before Kathy Smith and I crossed paths, so to speak. *G* I admit to being somewhat disappointed by this DVD at first. I was sort of expecting something like you can find in Sharon Mann's "The Works" series. I had also read that Smith is a great fitness trainer with some challenging workouts. The cardio section, which has a lot of dance/hilo moves, was not very long (30 or so minutes, I think) and not challenging for me, but that is because I've done too much tae bo and boot camp workouts. I think it might be alright if you have been out of the loop for a while. The yoga section was okay, but again it's like the cardio section... It will do the job if you've been out of that loop for a while and it is only 30 minutes long. That leaves me with the body sculpting section. Now THAT part did make it worth my money! *G* I had a set of free weights that had gone unused for too long, and Smith made them feel happy and needed again. The body sculpting section for the upper body is 20 minutes and for the lower body is only 10 minutes, but that one IS more than what I can handle right now and I am already feeling and seeing results. These exercises are good if you have been out of the loop a while and/or if you are pressured for time and need a quick workout just to keep it all toned for the other, bigger routines. I also will add that Smith has a very high-pitched voice and her style very cheerleaderish which does annoy me from time to time depending on my mood. I'd rather not try to smile while I am doing my pushups. But I understand about the positive attitude and all. I just do that part different, focusing on the inside towards my heart. It works better for me that way. ... Read more

Description

Renowned fitness instructor Tamilee Webb has selected the perfect Motown tunes for a lively and fun total body workout. These classic songs will get you groovin’ and shakin’ in no time. And the solid beat will make it easy to burn fat and strengthen muscles. Nothing helps motivate a workout like great music and Tamilee’s Fit to the Hits Motown Moves Workout. It’s so much fun that you will look forward to exercising!

With a master’s degree in exercise science, more than 20 chart-topping fitness videos including "Buns of Steel" and "I Want That Body", and three best-selling books, Tamilee I an undisputed fitness workout expert. She knows how to get you motivated and designs her workouts to achieve maximum results with minimum stress. Her no-hype, down-to-earth attitude and step-by-step instructions make getting fit fun and easy to fit in your lifestyle. No matter your fitness level or schedule, Tamilee’s Fit to the Hits is a workout you will want to do over and over again!

Special Features:

- Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound
- Interactive Full Moon Menus
- Music Only Workout
- Full Additional Workout Never Before on DVD: I Want That Body Workout 2
- Tamilee Trailers ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Fun! Fun! Fun workout!
I've had dozens of exercise videos and this is the most fun I've had working out. Tamilee's steps are easy but they give a good workout. You can make it gentle or strenous depending on how much you bounce and move your arms around. I felt this workout afterwards on my legs and arms. The music is very danceable, too. I appreciate that the exercises don't all have perfect bodies, although they are all pretty. I'm not much of a dancer, but I mastered all the steps after a couple of sessions. This workout also makes me feel like a better dancer. I can't wait to get Tamilee's other "Fit to the Hits" DVD and her other exercise videos. She is motivating without being overly perky, although I did find it a little annoying whenever she sang along to the music. One good feature of this DVD -- there is a music-only version! This workout is great for beginner to intermediate exercisers.

Don't sing along
I really enjoy Tamilee and think she has a great, athletic body. I also like her videos--usually. This one doesn't do enough for my heartrate and Tami's singing along is annoying. It would be good for someone just starting out, perhaps. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Well Worth Having in Your Yoga Library
The setting and execution of this video is a refreshing change from most of the others that I own.The warm up and poses are appealing and easy to follow. I was relieved that we weren't led into another seemingly endless round of sun salutations, and I appreciated the helpful hints given at the end.(I just wish that she would cut her hair.It gets in her way and makes me understand why ballerinas keep theirs in a bun or a pony tail or whatever.)

Relaxing and nicely paced, yet challenging
I was immediately intrigued with this video, as its warm-up features no sun salutations, opening instead with slow, dance-like movements for the arms, neck, spine, etc., and abdominal breathing exercises.Although I myself exercise on a regular basis and can do sun salutations with no problem, I felt more relaxed going into the main part of the workout as a result of her more gentle warm-up.

Her pacing seems right on-target, slow enough to feel the muscles working (i.e. long holds in Warrior 2, the Plank) and more relaxing than many fitness-type yoga videos I've tried, yet she doesn't spend so much time in a pose that you go beyond the benefit and start to feel uncomfortable.Lots of reminders to pay attention to the breath.I also like the attention she pays to low-back strength and flexibility, as this is an area which I need to work on. She's extremely knowledgeable with exercise and muscles, yet somehow explains in a way that is interesting without talking down to you.

The flow is excellent: relaxing, yet arranged in such a way that the time seems to fly by.I feel myself going on auto-pilot, where I just listen and let my body respond to her cues.Within a few viewings, I actually found myself able to perform most of the video without watching...her verbal cues are enough.

Her ending meditation is refreshingly devoid of new-age references or extraneous language.Instead, she helps you focus on your breathing and muscle relaxation, with subtle imagery to help you maintain your concentration.

I also liked the music, very unusual yet still appropriate for yoga.I love her selection for the ending meditation, sort of brings an "underwater" mood.

All in all, I think the "beginner/intermediate" describes this video well; she offers enough options to keep beginning practitioners comfortable, yet her choice of postures (and the length of time she dedicates to each) will ensure that more fitness-oriented and intermediate level practitioners will remain challenged.I would classify this video as one that hits four areas that are very important to me:muscle tone, low-back mobility, flexibilty, and of course stress reduction.

Relaxing and nicely paced, yet challenging
I was immediately intrigued with this video, as its warm-up features no sun salutations, opening instead with slow, dance-like movements for the arms, neck, spine, etc., and abdominal breathing exercises.Although I myself exercise on a regular basis and can do sun salutations with no problem, I felt more relaxed going into the main part of the workout as a result of her more gentle warm-up.

Her pacing seems right on-target, slow enough to feel the muscles working (i.e. long holds in Warrior 2, the Plank) and more relaxing than many fitness-type yoga videos I've tried, yet she doesn't spend so much time in a pose that you go beyond the benefit and start to feel uncomfortable.Lots of reminders to pay attention to the breath.I also like the attention she pays to low-back strength and flexibility, as this is an area which I need to work on. She's extremely knowledgeable with exercise and muscles, yet somehow explains in a way that is interesting without talking down to you.

The flow is excellent: relaxing, yet arranged in such a way that the time seems to fly by.I feel myself going on auto-pilot, where I just listen and let my body respond to her cues.Within a few viewings, I actually found myself able to perform most of the video without watching...her verbal cues are enough.

Her ending meditation is refreshingly devoid of new-age references or extraneous language.Instead, she helps you focus on your breathing and muscle relaxation, with subtle imagery to help you maintain your concentration.

I also liked the music, very unusual yet still appropriate for yoga.I love her selection for the ending meditation, sort of brings an "underwater" mood.

All in all, I think the "beginner/intermediate" describes this video well; she offers enough options to keep beginning practitioners comfortable, yet her choice of postures (and the length of time she dedicates to each) will ensure that more fitness-oriented and intermediate level practitioners will remain challenged.I would classify this video as one that hits four areas that are very important to me:muscle tone, low-back mobility, flexibilty, and of course stress reduction.

Terrific all-over body stretch but pace is too fast
There are some wonderful aspects to this video. The segment of explanations and modifications is excellent. And by placing it at the conclusion of the video, it doesn't disrupt the flow of the yoga once you know the routine. I like not having Beginners' Tips Coaching all the time; however she does remind you often to check for proper alignment and relax your shoulders (how does she know I have trouble with that!?)

She's not a cheerleader and she doesn't try to be your friend. She has no supporting cast of gym buddies that the camera jumps to, there are no jarring camera angles, her attire isn't the latest yoga fashion and she's not Hollywood chic. She is VERY accessible.

You will need a sticky mat, a pillow or blanket once or twice, and a strap and blocks (or very thick phonebook) if you're not very flexible yet. In the final segment she addresses the myriad retail choices of yoga equipment and advises you not to be intimidated by it. Most props you can find in your home, like a belt or thick books. The sticky mat is really the only thing you have to buy (and this is my personal advice. I practiced yoga a year without it and always hated Down Dog and Warrior because I slid. The mat has made ALL the difference.)

Her sequence of poses flows sensibly and really stretches your entire body. No pose or modifications of it is beyond a beginner and she doesn't make you feel "less than" just because you might not be in the pose as deeply as she is. Even though I do not have her range of motion, I am not intimidated by her advanced level.

She is extremely graceful and incorporates many dancer elements in her hands, arms and feet when she moves.

The warm-up is a series of gentle stretches and some attention to breath. One surprising element is Flamenco Fingers, which made me feel a little silly at first, and now, sort of exotic! There are no sun salutations.

The music is okay, an unusual patchwork of all kinds. Because I know most of the tunes, it can distract me; I would prefer a New Age-y white-noise-doesn't-have-a-real-melody-and-goes-nowhere kind of music. That being said may I reassure you the background music is NOT disruptive, it's just that I notice it and I'd prefer not to.

The two aspects where this video really falls short for me is its fast pace and lack of meditative quality. She goes TOO FAST. I practice yoga because I'm tense and need to learn mindfulness about my own body. When I get into a pose I must take a "body inventory" to be sure I'm not tensing and then will myself to relax. By the time I'm done with that and can finally turn my attention to my breath, she's moving on. I don't feel like I get the full benefit of the poses.

Except for the final cool-down, again, MUCH too fast, there is no attention to the meditative quality of yoga. I'm accustomed to a warm-up which focuses on lying still and getting in touch with my breath, and that helps set the tone for the meditative aspect to my practice. While her warm-up is a good stretch, it doesn't prepare me at all for a mindful approach. Don't misunderstand me, I do not sit in a lotus position and hum or chant and I'm not even looking for that sort of thing! It's just that the intentional slowing down of the breath and attention to it is meditative and good discipline for me.

Only occasionally does she tell you whether you should be inhaling or exhaling when making a certain motion.A good instructor will tell you every time how to breath when you're moving into a pose and coming out of it. This is such a key element to yoga that I must recommend you not choose this as your first introduction to yoga.

So, all that being said, I think this is a good video to increase your flexibility and have a thorough stretching session. Again this is not a good first introduction to yoga. I think one needs an intentional slowing down in our fast-paced lives and I believe yoga can offer that. This video doesn't.

...
I am fairly new to yoga (6 to 8 months), and in that time have ordered approximately 30 yoga videos!Out of those 30 there are 5 that come out on top for me and this is one of them.This is one of my recent acquisitions and I learned something new about a few of the poses, that's impressive!Evamarie gives clear-cut instruction and a balanced workout, plus an added bonus - no sun salutations! Eureka!Many of the 'beginners' videos I order are just too easy, and then I have, of course, ordered several that are too hard - this one is just right, leaving room for growth and improvement. Good Job Evamarie! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great for toning
I think this is a great tape for toning. The segments really pack a lot of exercises into 20 minutes. Coupled with an aerobic exercise, this is really shaping me up. Leslie does jabber on a bit -- but she leads a good workout.

Better than "Firm Off Weight"--get this one instead!
Sure, this video doesn't have a warmup, cool down or stretching, but it is still a good strength tape. I like to use it after a cardio video when I'm already warmed up. Afterwards I either do my own stretches or put in a stretching video.

This video has 3 sections. The first one has challenging floorwork. I don't even have to put on ankle weights to feel the burn. Great for the thighs and glutes! The second segment is all upper body. She is sitting in an awkward position for these exercises, and left out back work, so I gave this video a 4 star rating. The last section is lunges, squats, and abs. She does the lunges nice and slow, and I was surprised on how much I felt it the next day. I have many other videos, where the lunges are faster, and I just don't feel the benefit of the exercise, except for this video!

weight loss
i enjoy the walk off weight video

Leslie Sansone, Walk Off Weight System - Firm Off Weight
This video was poor enough to motivate me to warn other users about its content. The video does not include warm ups, cool downs, stretching of any kind or complete instruction regarding the correct form to be used during the exercise. In fact, during some segments such as the outer thigh workout in Segment #3, the improper form is demonstrated. The range of exercises is minimal. Even if all three segments are completed, exercises for the back, calves and quadriceps are missing. There are too many good videos to waste time or money on this one.

This is a fun tape that really works for losing weight.
I have Leslie's Walking Aerobic tape for the family which I had been using prior to getting this one so I was already started in the process of losing weight. I really like this one as well and maybe even better as I feel I get a very strenuous workout and it has varied moves which make time goes fast and is actually very fun. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Good, but not the best
This is a nice addition to my collection, but is not my favorite DVD. Jennifer does not allow enough rest or even a pause between poses, so you never have time to make the mind and body connection. The routine very good through. Her sun salutation is fun and easy to follow. She holds the poses for a perfect amount of time. The ending meditation is very nice, except the camera does not show her hand position when she's explaining the breathing technique. If you're only buying 1 DVD I would suggest Yoga for Urban Living instead.

Check my other reviews on Amazon for some great yoga DVDs!

Yoga Review
I have done some yoga and do lots of earobics, weights etc but this yoga tape is a perfect workout- she explains it and demonstrates so well- perfect pace-whether you are learning the tape or becoming more experienced it still works. Where yu can do all the postures at first doesn't matter either-as long as you do it to the best of your ability you'll get lots out of it ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Power Yoga at its Best
I've been doing yoga for several years now, both classes and tapes. I've tried several tapes/dvds and I believe Bryan Kest's are truly the best. I've purchased five so far. The practice is very challenging, my strength and endurance have increased tremendously. The videos average from 40 minutes to just under an hour, long enough to get an excellent workout but not too long to fit it in a busy day. Some of his commentary gets a little old after a while but its a workout tape, not a movie & I can live with that. Turn down the volume & listen to Enya if it bothers you. Bottom line, I'd recommend any of his videos/dvds to any beginner/intermediate level practitioner, they're well worth the price.

not bad
I liked this program for the most part. My wife and I tried it and it was pretty good, but I gotta say, that once we were used to Mark Blanchard's Progressive Power Yoga, this was just average in comparison. I think Bryan has a decent style and invigorating practice...good for a sweat, but for the core workout and the mental space that I am used to going to, I did not find this to be the best ticket to the experience. He kept taking my attention away from the workout and that felt annoying. My wife did not have that experience, but she can even tune me out when she wants to...and she has been doing yoga much longer than I have.

Breathing Hard!
Definitely an aerobic workout but with a yogic touch. Bryan Kest's routine made me work my body hard but also helped remind me to keep breathing. I love the messages he presents in his DVDs. They remind me to stay calm even when I'm breathing hard or when life throws me a curve ball.

This is a great routine and a nice addition to anyone's yoga collection. When you're ready to sweat, throw this one into your DVD player.

I highly recommend this DVD.
This was a really great workout. I have got used to Bryan's rambeling, its what makes Bryan Kest him. I have also lost alot of weight and gotten tone in alot of places that I didn't thing could ever get tone. My armes belly everyplace. I also feel wonderful about myself and my environment. I thank Bryan for his DVD's and Audio's and look forward to hearing new things from him.

Disappointed with Bryan Kest
Let me start with the negatives: this DVD stinks.

Bryan is one of the worst teachers/instructors I've ever come across. Every other word was "um" or "and uh". He seemed as if he had no clue as to what the class was going to do next.

Kest also rarely used the correct terms for the various asanas. He also failed to discuss with viewers the correct forms for various poses. He just said things like, "Do this and really bend" or "If you can't do the move, just stop and take it easy." In comparison to the Gaim produced Rodney Lee DVD I have, Kest seemed very amateurish.

The DVD content is another point of contention for me. For 23 bucks I expected at least a 2-3 hour DVD. I was wrong. There is only one class at a length of 40 minutes.

I will say the one class on the DVD is very difficult and will probably yield weight loss results if one doesn't get bored first.

I'd recommend viewers pass on this DVD and look into purchasing another one, maybe a Rodney Yee lead yoga practice. ... Read more

Reviews (19)

Good overall workout for calming and stretching
I'm a Yoga beginner and found this tape surprisingly good. Ms. Walden provides modifications to exercises for less flexible individuals. When the repetitions are too much or the pose too difficult I fast forward or just sit quietly until she moves on. As a person with chronic back problems, I've found this video very helpful in keeping my back loose and free from spasms. However, the Upward Bow (backbends) seem excessive. Yoga Journal publishers - STOP PUTTING THOSE LONG ADS ON EVERY VIDEO!

An excellent video, but not for beginners
This tape was a wise investment for me. I am 47 and although the poses are challenging, they are all achievable. I have been doing some of them in a YMCA yoga class for about a year, but have found my attendance dropping off as it didn't fit my schedule too well. Having that small amount of practice was enough to encourage me to try Patricia Walden's workouts on Yoga Practice for Flexibility, and I have found them to be very beneficial. I would highly recommend it to anyone with an interest in maintaining and/or increasing flexibility.

Get Flexible, but feel challanged
This is definitely a challanging video (and only the second session seems like a beginners practise to me)- but, it has become one of my favorites. I was a cheerleader in highschool and very flexible, but, hadn't done any flexibility exercises in *years*.

Poses you learn and do:

Downward facing dog, Standing forward bend, Mountain pose, Warrior pose, Triangle pose, Revolved Triangle pose, Side angle stretch, Wide angle forward bend, Camel pose, Cobra Pose, Upward Bow pose, Staff pose, Heros forward bend, Heron pose, Head to knee pose, Seated forward bend, and Seated wide angle forward bend.

I still find the first segment challanging, but after doing it for a few months (no more than once a every other week- its so challanging that I *dread* it) and practising some of the poses on my own, I can now do the first segment well. I would warn those though- the last segment in the first series is very challanging. Although it is not too difficult to do camel several times, it is *very* difficult to do an upward bow pose 5 times (once supported)! Each time focusing on a different feeling from the practise. When I first got this video, I found the first practise hurt my wrists. Also, be sure to really release the lower back. If you are weak in the lower back, the series of upward bow poses is very hard. The rewarding part of the first session is she does go into a detailed explanation of the primary yoga poses- like downward facing dog, warrior, triangle pose, etc.

As far as the second segment "forward bends"- this is one of my very favorite yoga practises. This is why I gave this tape 4 stars. I do this one every week, and do some of the stretches after I do aerobics, too. I found this practise easy to learn, and feel very relaxed afterward (compared to feeling just plain exhuasted after the first one!). The props used in this practise make it easier for beginners than the first practise, and I believe you see and feel results quicker. After doing this practise for three months, I was doing side splits like in high school. Also, I feel like doing this practise also helped me ease into Pilates. I have been doing this practise once a week for almost 8 months. I just love it!

So, if you want to learn some yoga poses, and get your legs more flexible, you will enjoy this tape... but, if you are buying it as a total yoga beginner, you are going to feel really really challanged.

I rank the first segment a 2, and the second a 5.

Best Yoga Video
This is truly one of the best Yoga videos I have seen.

I like Patricia Walden, ever since I have been practicing
PM Yoga for Beginners daily.

She gives detailed instructions. She also provides alternatives for people not as flexible as herself. She is an excellent instructor. Patricia and Rodney Lee are the two greatest
Yoga instructors.

Not for Beginners, or anyone else
Attempting difficult poses, even modified versions, is a sure-fire way to discourage beginners from the practice, or make them feel inadequate, which is not what Yoga should cultivate. Even as an intermediate yoga practicioner, I did not like this tape, primarily because it throws you into the difficult poses without first generating sufficient heat in the body. The warm-up poses are minimal, static, and do not prepare your body sufficiently for the extensions and compressions of the advanced postures that follow. Besides all that, the instruction goes from excrutiating detail to not enough information (you have to break concentration and look to see what's going on) in the course of a single series of poses. Very frustrating. As if that weren't bad enough, the instructor's amazing flexibility is about the only inspiring aspect of the tape; her monotone delivery and the spare studio setting with no students make for a no fun experience. ... Read more

Reviews (45)

Great workout!
After my membership at a health facility expired last summer I looked for tapes which I could do at home to 'mimic' the intensity of the aerobic classes I went to. I really enjoyed step aerobics and also liked Kathy Smith; so I was happy to find this tape. Over a year later this is still my favorite step workout!! I sweat like crazy when I do this workout and it's super fun. Her 90 minute step workout is also very good. :)

There are 3 segments that are about 12 minutes in length (beginner, intermediate, advanced). I usually do the whole tape which is about 50 minutes long. It is comparable to a workout you would get at the gym. There's a lot of variety in the moves which keeps it interesting. Kathy's cueing is unsurpassed! Great workout, and usually can be found at a great price too.

Great Step Workout
I am an avid exerciser, doing all kinds of aerobics. Lately, stepping has been my thing. I like Kathy Smith. Unlike previous reviewers, I think she cues quite well, especially compared to Denise Austin, who rarely cues on time. This video is a great step workout. It is not for beginners. This workout really gets the heart pumping. Kathy shows you power moves you can do to increase your calorie burn, or you can choose not to do the power moves. You can choose to do all three intervals, or just do one or two. Great warm-up and cool down. I recommend this for intermediate steppers.

Good workout
I like Kathy Smith and this is a good workout. Maybe its just me but I found it really confusing when she was doing the segment where the step was vertical and she was facing in the opposite direction from me. I know that is probably necessary, but in that case she needs to explain what she is doing and actually cue the moves. Its hard to just catch on. There was one particular series that I still do not understand what she's doing

Other than that, the moves were easy to follow.

I particularly like that you could modify it by adding more or less power moves.

A great workout!
I'm a total klutz when it comes to exercise videos, but Kathy Smith is my favorite instructor. She doesn't do fancy steps that take multiple viewings to "catch on" to, she doesn't do anything unsafe, and always gives low and higher impact exercise options.

This step workout still makes me sweat and my heart beat fast enough for a good aerobic workout, even after working out six times a week for months. The music is innocuous enough that it's not annoying, even though I do the workout about twice a week (I rotate four workout videos). Kathy has a few annoying whoops, but not enough to irritate me. I like that she has you take your pulse twice during the workout, to make sure you're working at your target heartrate. The workout is about 45 minutes long without the cooldown (I confess that I skip it and just walk around for a few minutes instead)

Lots of fun!
I've been doing Kathy's regular step workout for some time and know the moves so well I was worried about changing to another tape and having to start learning all over again. Still, I did, and haven't looked back. The Power Step workout is so much fun and it only took me a couple of tries to get it all right. The modifiers are useful if you are a beginner, but a more experienced stepper can get a great workout using the power moves (catching air). I use a regular step with a couple of risers each side, but Kathy and the crew use a flexible, bouncy one which she endorses. The workout goes by very quickly and I almost wish there was an abs section at the end, or maybe some weights just to round it out. I work out most days and alternate Kathy's tapes. I like the way she's motivational and how the "gang" have perma-smiles (cheesy, but fun!). No complaints from me, and I feel great! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

great for moving on from yoga for weight loss
i really love this dvd. i first started yoga a year ago with suzanne's yoga for weight loss. since i have purchased many yoga dvd sessions. i find myself always returning to this one. it combines a great practice with relaxation. if you are looking to sweat like power yoga this won't work for you, but i find it does get my heart rate up at points while relaxing me at the same time.

disapointed
I already had Suzanne Deason tape"Yoga for balance" .I enjoyed it almost daily.That why I choose her another DVD -"Yoga conditioning for women".I was extremly disapointed when I found out that it is same work out ("Yoga for balance") only under different name .I felt cheated .

Good focus on breathing, balance, and core muscles.
First, the cons: (1) this isn't a great video for the beginner, because the poses aren't described well. For many of them, she just says "go into ____ pose." (2) People looking for a weight loss video will probably be disappointed, as there are not many of the large muscle-group poses (such as warrior) and not much of the flowing from one pose to the next (which is usually what makes _me_ break a sweat). (3) Many of these moves require a great deal of flexibility, and no instruction is given on modifications during the video (although there is a segment on using props that you should watch before beginning.) This flexibility requirement, combined with some fairly difficult balancing poses could make this a very frustrating video...

Pros: (1) There is a lot of focus on breathing. In fact, the first 10 minutes or so are just breathing practice, and she returns to focusing on the breath often. (2) There is also a lot of focus on the core muscles (in the back and stomach). Not only does she include lots of poses that strengthen the back and stomach, but she also points out how these core muscles come into play in other postures (such as triangle and balancing poses.) (3) Finally, this video has more balancing poses than any other I've seen. It's great practice (assuming you don't get too bruised from falling over all the time :-), and since balance improves greatly with practice, this will help you in any other yoga you undertake.

Overall, this is a pretty good video. It's not strenuous enough for me to consider it a workout, but I use it on days when I'm not feeling very energetic. I consider it a good addition to my yoga video (mini)collection.

i think suzanne deason is great....
i am a fan of suzanne deason...i see from above that people think this might be too fast...however it was just what i was looking for....i was using her yoga conditioning for weight loss (which is really good by the way) for a while but wanted something with not as many instructions and levels...this dvd is definitely not for the beginner...i would say intermediate...she moves quickly from one pose to the next...i love her soft voice and gentle moves...if you are just starting out i would not recommend this but if you have been doing yoga at home for a while and are looking for the next step this is one you should try...

Too fast to be beneficial
Although I really liked the poses that were chosen, she went so fast I could barely find my way into each pose. In my opinion this negates the unique benefits of yoga, which include gradual stretch, sustained strength, and increased body awareness. How can you learn from the poses when you barely have time to greet them?
There is one occassion that might call for this DVD: when you know you should get some exercise, but you really aren't feeling motivated. Because it goes by fast, it's easier to talk yourself into putting on this DVD instead of a more sustained practice.
If you want a more thorough workout and are familiar with basic poses, I recomment Shiva Rea's Yoga Sanctuary. It is an audio CD but includes a poster with all the poses from the program. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This Yoga Journal DVD contains two workout programs: "Yoga Practice for Strength" and "Yoga Practice for Energy."

In "Yoga Practice for Strength," teacher Rodney Yee begins the lesson with variations of sun salutations and poses such as the dog, triangle, and others. In the second, more intense sequence, Yee leads the bridge, shoulder stand, warrior, and balancing poses, his narration soothing and his technique inspiring. Very difficult poses, such as the crane pose and pendulum pose, comprise the end of the set. This session is not recommended for those new to yoga because it is quite strenuous; students should first be familiar with the vinyasas to ensure that the poses are reached and held correctly.

"Yoga Practice for Energy" is a different kind of workout. Filmed at the beach on Maui, the sessions Awakening, Centering, Creativity, Reflection, and Surrender offer movements that follow the cycle of the sun through the course of a day. Viewers are encouraged to first try the entire tape several times, and then use the sessions that correspond to their needs at any particular time. For example, if you've just trudged in the door from a hectic day, you may want to use the Reflection session, in which "a cooling, tranquil series of forward bends and hip openers let all activities of the day seep in like watercolors setting into paper." Almost no narrative accompanies the five practice sessions, and if you are a beginner you may feel lost at first viewing. Have no fear: the DVD contains a wonderful appendix to which you can refer for tips on technique and variations on poses. --Jhana Bach ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Two great workouts
This DVD includes two very different workouts that have both become staples in my practice. Yoga for Energy is a perfect am workout, slowly warming up the body, progressing into more challenging vinyasa (flowing sequences) and ending with deep stretches to relax and calm the body. It is well balanced between flexion and extension and covers all the movements of the spine. Note that you will need to be familiar with the poses to follow this workout. Yoga for Strength is a slower, deeper workout developing muscle strength, balance and stability. It is appropriate for all levels and includes some introductory inversions.

An Outstanding Daily Practice
I love Rodney Yee! He is so refreshing and inspirational. My favorite part of this DVD is the "Yoga for Energy" practice. There have been weeks when I have done this practice every single day. It never disappoints. I really like the lack of verbal instruction (although it does help if you are familiar with the poses before doing this practice) and the simple format. I like that the practice is balanced and very inclusive. You work every part of your body during this practice. It is helpful that he has an appendix of useful modifications for people at the end of this section. It is worthwhile to watch the entire 45-minute practice first, before trying it along with Rodney and friends. The "Yoga for Strength" section is also excellent and provides a good way to learn many of the poses before moving on to the more flowing Energy practice.

I think it is perfect for the person who has had a few classes or done a beginner tape and is ready to establish a daily routine.

chaptering
Like the rest of Rodney's videos/dvds, Yoga for Strength and Energy is great, visually beautiful, and physically challenging. I'm glad they combined these two videos on one dvd. I am primarily writing this review to state that the chaptering is actually fine. In the first menu you can pick whether you want to do Yoga for Strength or Yoga for Energy. If you pick Yoga for Strength, then you go to another menu where you can pick between either of the two Strength practices. If you pick Yoga for Energy, then the next menu is for any of the 5 10min. Energy sessions, or you can just start with the first session and go straight through for a complete practice. I'm not sure why these other reviewers complain about chaptering- Gaiam did a great job with this dvd. I routinely use this dvd because I can mix and match sessions from Strength and Energy to get a slightly different yoga practice according to what I feel like doing that day.

definitely not for beginners
Perhaps someone more advanced would have a different opinion, but as a person fairly new to yoga, I cannot recommend this program.

Aside from the fact that many of the moves are just plain impossible for a novice, there are other faults: The directions are very limited, the breath pattern that he seems to follow just doesn't seem realistic or at least even and steady, and I don't enjoy having to sit through or FF through 7 minutes of him showing off at the beginning of the dvd. And as the other reviews stated, there are no chapters, so we've basically paid for a dvd with all the limitations of a vhs tape. I think this one will be collecting some dust on my shelf.

DVD Be DVD,please.....
I'm a 3rd Dan Taekwondo practitioner who uses yoga as an excellent adjunct to my study,and practise yoga at an intermediate level. While I LOVE the material and it's presentation in the discs, I must agree with the comments from "Philadelphia" regarding the lack of DVD chapters that would actually optimize the use of the vinyasas,especially the Energy cycle as it tracks through the day. I purchased the DVD because I figured the DVD version made such technologic options available-wrong! It's actually easier to use the VHS, as I can readily park the tape where I want to start the next session,instead of a total restart,as on DVD. While Rodney and his material rate 5 stars,the DVD issues drop it to 3 for me. Come out with REAL DVD, Living Arts, and I'll buy it..... hey, anybody out there know what the music used in the Centering section is from? I'm sure it's Peter Davison, but don't know which CD..... -pajcastle@axom.com ... Read more

Description

Why waste time with a workout set on simmer?Kathy Smith’s new fat-burning formula takes advantage of your body’s own rules for a greater training efficiency.Learn how to use high-intensity intervals and weight lifting to turn your aerobic system into a calorie-burning inferno!With the programmable features on this DVD, routines can be mixed or repeated in any combinations you like. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

ONE OF MY FAVE FUN WORKOUTS! A MUST-BUY!
A programmable DVD that lets you create your own custom workout. Just choose the segments you want and they'll play in the exact order you selected. Includes six 15-20 minute sections: low-impact aerobics, higher-impact kickboxing, cardio intervals, jump-rope intervals, upper-body toning and lower-body toning. To make designing your workout easy, Kathy starts with an easy-to-understand explanation of how to choose and sequence your personal workout (to match your fitness goals). This DVD is carefully re-edited using segments from Kathy's "Aerobox," "Peak Fat Burning," "Lift Weights to Lose Weight," "Kickboxing" and "Cardio Fat Burner" videos. A great addition to my exercise video collection.

Bad Choice
The idea behind the video is great. Program your own workout - who couldn't love that? But it lacks a few things. As my fellow reviewers noted, the warm up and cool down are up to you. What I really missed was the part where Kathy explains the routines!!!! If you've seen her other videos then you'll probably remember how to do them, but this is the first Kathy Smith video I've tried and I just couldn't follow what she was doing. The "Long-Slow" workouts are the worst. I was so frustrated by trying to follow the foot work that I gave up. Definitely a bad buy.

Excellent compilation!
I am pretty much a beginner, but I must say this is a great DVD to buy! It is compiled of segments from some of her previous videos, so if you have those, you may not want this. But if you don't have them, definitely give this a try because you can program your own workout which I love! You can choose from two long-slow workouts, two interval workouts, and an upper and a lower body strength training. I also love the first segment where Kathy tells you the "rules of fat burning". There were only a few things about this DVD I didn't care for. First is that there is no warm up. You may want to do some stretches or pop in a yoga DVD before doing this. Same with cooldowns. Second is that I assumed the long-slow cardios would be more of a beginner level, but they are more of an intermediate to advanced level to me. I clocked a segment at 136 bmp (some other videos I use are at around 130). I don't have much of a problem with that, I need the push, but the "dance moves" are a little confusing and it took me a while to catch on. Third is that during some of the workouts she and the other people get a little loud and hyper. In some ways that can really get you going and smile along with them, but if you're really trying to concentrate it can be annoying. But Kathy definitely isn't as annoying as some instructors I've seen so overall I'd say she's a great modivator. This DVD will definitely stay in my favorites!

Pretty okay for a compilation
This workout is divided into "best of" sections of high impact cardio and low impact cardio in 15 and 20 minute segments. The cardio is okay, but there aren't any warm up or cool downs which I think is a real drawback. Also, one workout is with a jump rope which I think is silly because most people who bought this are working out at home, so jumping rope is impractical. The weight training sections are really good , but there is no ab section so that was disappointing. Overall, something I will use several times per week.

Needs to Explain Moves Better
The choreography in the first long/slow segment was a little hard to follow. She abruptly changes direction with little to no explanation. The programable feature was nice so the workout flows together. Her enthusiasm is one plus, she keeps you motivated without getting on your nerves. ... Read more

Description

New health studies have proven that regular cardio exercise and strength training are vitally important to your long-term health and they also leas to Tighter Assets! Tamilee has designed a cardio workout that will change both aerobic and muscle endurance while you burn major calories and fat. This 30-minute Cardio Blast workout will take you through aerobic movements that will elevate you heart rate and then transition into muscular movements to strengthen your muscles and balance. Your greatest asset is your health. By taking care of your body and eating healthy you can have Tighter Assets! Now is the time to let Tamilee show you the way to looking and feeling great.

With a master’s degree in exercise science, more than 20 chart-topping fitness videos including "Buns of Steel" and "I Want That Body", and three best-selling books, Tamilee is an undisputed fitness workout expert. She knows how to get you motivated and designs her workouts to achieve maximum results with minimum stress. Her no-hype, down-to-earth attitude and step-by-step instructions make getting fit fun and easy to fit in your lifestyle. No matter your fitness level or schedule, Tamilee’s Tighter Assets is a workout program you will want to do over and over again!

Special Features:

- Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound
- Interactive Full Moon Menus
- Chapter Selections
- Complete Nutritional Guide, Menus, and Recipes
- Music Only Workout
- 10 Minute Buns
- Tamilee Trailers
- Photo Gallery
- Testimonials with Before/After Pictures ... Read more

Reviews (11)

I love this video!!!
Although this workout is only 30 minutes long, it is a great cardio workout. I always work out an hour a day so sometimes I double up on this video or do this video along with Tamilee's weight loss video or her other sculpting videos(from the "I want those buns, abs, or arms series). Easy moves, not too dancy--just very basic choreography broken down into manageable segments. Background is bright and clean. Tamilee is awesome!!!

Good workout when you don't have all day
I have two left feet and am admittedly more of a weight training and yoga exerciser than a cardio fan. I liked this workout as it was simple to learn, Tamilee is a good cue-er, and it was short. I do get sweaty. I like the "tight" admonishments too. They kept my form from getting sloppy.

Great cardio workout!
I wish there were more cardio dvds like this one. For me, a workout isn't a workout unless I'm drenched in sweat. Cardio Blast does the trick and it's pretty fun. When I do it in the morning I'm pumped full of energy for the rest of the day. I'm now in constant pursuit to find more cardio workouts like this.

Soaking wet hair!!
I've been working out steadily five times per week since mid-November, using an elliptical trainer about three times per week, along with weight training and a few other exercise videos. After three weeks, this DVD is still extremely challenging to me cardio-wise, though the choreography is relatively easy. For me, a sign of a good workout is a lot of sweat, and this one gets my hair soaking wet, every time! The major downside about the DVD version is the producer's opening advertisements, which cannot be skipped over.

Good for a time crunch
Although this isn't my favorite fitness DVD, it does get your heartrate up and gives you a fairly good workout if you are in a time crunch. I also travel a lot and wanted a DVD I could play on my laptop in a hotel room that didn't need steps or weights and this fits that bill. When I want a workout, but don't have my usual hour to devote, I pop in Cardio Blast. If you add the 10 minute buns workout that is in the special features you can add to the 30 minutes, which helps a bit. I don't use this DVD in my regular schedule, but like it if I need that change or short workout! ... Read more